What's happening around Santa Barbara these days? Hmmm...City Council swore in a new member and one returning. The returning councilman, Das Williams, is phenomenal. The new one, Dale Francisco, looks like a good choice, too.

The U.S.S. Ronald Reagan is going to be anchored off the coast this weekend. A navy ship hasn't been out here for years, because of the 'war' or occupation in the Middle East. (I'm not sure what to even call it anymore. Dick & George's adventure?) The sailors from the ship will be coming ashore to help out with community service at the Police Dept. and Dos Pueblos High School (as far as I've heard). That's really cool! The place really comes alive when they're around here. The bars and restaurants along State Street are packed. I always look forward to these visits from big ships. We received visits from the Italian navy a few years ago and I vaguely recall a visit from the Swedish navy (wishful thinking?).

The SB Film Festival is coming up and Julie Christie will be honored. I hear Angelina Jolie will be here, too. (Woo-Hoo! I guess that would mean Brad Pitt would be here!) Tommy Lee Jones and Cate Blanchett will be honored, too. That's always exciting but traffic and parking get to be a drag. The egos take up so much room...

I was reading about Lyrica. It's a medication OK'd by the FDA for fibromyalgia pain relief. It's a blessing if it works well. I'm slightly curious but I'll wait a couple of years for the 'bugs' to be discovered before I use it. Celebrex and Actos are other meds my doctor prescribed that could have had bad side effects - like death.

It's sunny but cool today. There were some really neat clouds in the sky yesterday - it was a mackerel sky. The clouds looked like scales on a fish. It was really beautiful.

There are gang 'episodes' a couple of times a week. One took place a couple of blocks from my place, in a park. So far, no innocent by-standers have been hurt, thankfully. It's sad to see 13 and 14 year old kids stabbing each other, but I think more parent supervision would help. The breakdown of the family has made this such a problem. There are estimated to be around 700 gang members in S.B. Certain business 'leaders' are pressuring against any further action like a gang injunction that would put a stigma on the city (as if stabbings and beatings on the street won't).

Have a good one, everybody!

I've run charts for each of the presidential candidates. I tell you, it reveals a lot about one's talents, abilities, challenges, goals, and character.

Hillary Clinton will always fight for justice, speaking for children and the underdog. She is experienced, tough, intelligent, and will be remembered historically as one of the most influential citizens of this period. She would be a very successful president. She does have the ability to touch people on a very deep, gut level, and may 'scare' some because of her courage, strength, and abilities. She is worth a vote, absolutely.

John Edwards, also a big fighter for the underdog. What I especially like about this man is his refusal to take campaign money from lobbyists and PAC (political action interests such as countries, industries, etc.). He will not be obligated to repay the favor while in office although it wouldn't be for the best interest of American citizens. He is committed to Americans of all 'stripes' and I believe he will have a successful presidency if elected. He's earned my vote as far as the primaries go. In the event that he does not get the presidency in this year's election, he very well should in 2012. The stars are definitely with him at that time.

Obama is a very strong individual destined to make a difference in this world by his ability to lead. He has an ability to draw people together, as we see in the news. He is supported by left, right, and independents. His fortitude and sheer will to do good should make up for his youth and perceived lack of experience. He is a wise soul and will also make a fine president.

My own 17 year old son will turn 18 in August, so he will be able to vote for president! I'm really encouraged by the interest shown by young adults as far as the elections go. It truly makes a world of difference if you're involved. One little person can make a difference, don't ever let yourself think otherwise. Vote, write to your city council, legislators, senators, and president or governor. Your voice will be heard. You WILL make a difference.